Kinda...kirjad? [2019-20]
Collaboration with Malle Lehtsaluknitted acrylic, 15x15cm (irreg.) and graphite on paper
Exhibited in Three Foot Square & The Anti-Annual, Join-The-Dots
‘Kinda...kirjad?’ was inspired by the work of seminal designer Susan Kare and traditional Estonian woven kindakirjad [wool mitten patterns] whose motifs traditionally originate from daily life, commerce, agriculture and folk culture. In Estonia, these patterns continue to evolve and iterate over time with trends and aesthetic demands slowly overtaking their use as spiritually-laden objects. In this speculative work, I imagine what spiritualism may look like in a distant digital dark age where appropriated patterns protect us.
The four patterns; helikiri [noise pattern], hoiukiri [saviour pattern], laadimiskiri [download pattern], otskiri [searching pattern], are remnants of this future timeline.
helikiri [noise pattern]
15x15cm (irreg.)
Traditional geometric motifs are interwoven with symbols representing sound, volume and voice. Given to young children entering Primary, this would often be woven into a scarf or belt to provide the wearer confidence and a strong, loud voice. It was also believed to clear the mind from distraction and help with colds and sore throats.
hoiukiri [saviour pattern]
20x15cm (irreg.)
Boxed patterns resembling analogue books and a ‘floppy’ symbolise the notion of archiving, protection and nostalgia. This would be sewn into clothes and bedlinen of newborns and pregnant women to protect and save both child and mother. (Note: the cross motif denoting obvious religious signifiance)
laadimiskiri [download pattern]
16x16cm (irreg.)
The hourglass pattern would be given to individuals, likely family, close friends or neighbours, grieving or burdened with a task, wherein the giver takes on a portion of the receiver’s responsibility. This gift would be expected to be returned sometime later and can be considered equivalent to a symbolic gesture of a favour. The horned symbol is a traditional motif representing the omnipresent electronic eyes that observes everyone, looking out for their needs and wants and is a familiar sight along city streets.
otskiri [searching pattern]
18x18cm (irreg.)
Traditionally worn by unmarried individuals leaving home for study, travel, work or other reasons, primarily travelling overseas. The otsikiri would guide the wearer with favourable winds and clear weather. The garment itself would always point back home like a compass to avoid the wearer getting lost whilst abroad. The pattern resembles interlinked people, hand in hand, to remind individuals of their family and the everlasting bond and connection they share with them. Often this bond would come in the form of monetary assistance whilst working abroad.